A Resilient Future for Bangladesh Sundarbans

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is a sanctuary for some of the world’s most endangered species.

However, this unique ecosystem is under threat from population pressures and climate change, and the communities living on the edge of the forest are struggling to survive.

Watch these new videos to see how taking a few small steps can save Sundarbans, preserve its bio-diversity and protect the lives and livelihoods of those dependent on the forest.

The largest mangrove forest in the world, the Sundarbans is a complex network of islands, winding creeks and mudflats. Home to a variety of plants and animals, it is a sanctuary for some of the world’s most endangered species - including the largest single population of Bengal tigers in the world.

Some 3 million people live on the edge of the Bangladesh Sundarbans - the largest mangrove forest in world. For generations, they have depended on nature, and lived as woodcutters, honey collectors, fishermen and subsistence farmers.

However, a recent study “Securing A Resilient Future for Bangladesh Sundarbans” finds that population pressure and the impacts of climate change has put this unique ecosystem under threat. Compared to when first mapped in 1764, Sundarbans is now barely a third of its original size – and it is continuing to shrink. Local communities are struggling to survive with almost 50% living below the poverty line. For those who live on the edge of the Sundarbans, the situation is serious. But it is not hopeless.

We can save the Sundarbans - not just for us, but for generations to come.

Three million people live on the edge of Bangladesh's Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world. Its resources are being over exploited and local communities are struggling to survive. Almost 50% of the people live below the poverty line with limited access to services. The situation is serious but not hopeless. We can help and we must.

The Sundarbans are the largest mangrove forest and sanctuary for a number of the world's most endangered species. The forest has the largest single population of Bengal tigers in the world. But this unique ecosystem is under threat. We have to act now. We can save the Sunderbans - not just for us, but for generations to come.